51.   But the lower federal courts were divided over whether the regulations complied with various provisions of federal welfare law.

52.   But the new federal welfare law enacted many of the changes he had sought, like time limits and work requirements for benefits.

53.   But the new welfare law was supposed to be different.

54.   But the plan also includes worthwhile features that go beyond what other states are likely to propose to soften the blow of the new federal welfare law.

55.   But the welfare law eliminates Supplemental Security Income for most legal immigrants, including many already in this country.

56.   But the welfare law also required state officials to inform former welfare recipients of their right to receive Medicaid for up to one year after leaving the system.

57.   But under the welfare reform law adopted last year, most people receiving assistance will have to enter the job market in less than five years.

58.   But we could get a welfare law written in two days by people who have had very little sleep.

59.   But there are still points of contention as Congress reauthorizes welfare laws this year.

60.   By then, proponents of the welfare law say, the economy should be generating jobs again and leaving few people exposed to deadlines.